-33 kg (72 lb): André Has Caught a Case of the Running Bug

My name is André, I’m 39 years old and come from Austria. Today, I would like to tell you my story: my first weight loss journey began in 2012. That year, I rode my bike a total of 3,000 km. I basically went from 0 to 100 and was bursting with motivation. My weight dropped from 130 kg (286 lb) to 112 kg (246 lb), but then I stopped losing weight all of a sudden. In 2014, I started to slowly, but steadily put on weight again. And before I knew it, I suddenly weighed more than ever before: 132 kg (291 lb). My friends told me that I didn’t look healthy, but I just didn’t want to believe it.

Then came the turning point…

In April 2016, everything changed. My wife had to alter her diet due to an allergy. We agreed that she should also cook for our daughter and me to cut down on the extra work. So I also completely turned my diet around. I ate healthier and more balanced meals, with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, and reduced my portion sizes. Sometimes, I had a shake for lunch instead of a meal. I started cycling again. Slowly, the kilos began to melt away.

“The Runtastic apps helped me to break my weight loss plateau”

A few months later, I was down to 112 kg (246 lb), but then my weight loss stalled again. I decided to start running and use the Runtastic app. Shortly afterward, I began to use the Six Pack app to tone my abs. Through the combination of diet and exercise, I was able to drop down to 104 kg (229 lb) by the end of 2016.

New year – New motivation

I got off to a fast start in 2017 with a New Year’s run. As crazy as it may sound, I tackled the first 10 km run at 2 a.m. I guess it’s safe to say that I’ve caught the running bug. I’m so thrilled about my progress that I’m planning to take part in three Spartan races next year. I currently weigh 99 kg (218 lb), but my goal is still to lose another 5 kg (11 lb). Plus, I’d like to put on some more muscle mass.

My tip for you: You can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. The main thing is to take action and work hard toward your goal!